In a bid to enhance the tourist experience and promote safety, the Assam State Government has announced plans to prohibit hawking and begging activities in and around tourist destinations across the State. Additionally, committees will be established to oversee adventurous sports activities, ensuring adherence to safety standards and regulations.
The impending Tourism Act, already endorsed by the State Assembly, mandates that individuals refrain from engaging in begging or selling articles around tourist areas. This measure aims to cultivate a positive impression among visitors from outside the State, mitigating discomfort caused by unsolicited solicitations.
Adventure sports, including aero-sports, paragliding, trekking, and water sports, are gaining popularity in Assam, attracting private investment and participation. However, these activities entail inherent risks, necessitating stringent safety measures.
To address this, the proposed Act incorporates provisions for Adventure Safety Audit Committees tasked with evaluating risk levels at adventure sites, inspecting service providers, ensuring compliance with safety standards. Operators must obtain clearance from these committees to conduct adventure activities, with unauthorised operations deemed illegal.
The committees, headed by the Director of Tourism, will oversee adventure operations and issue certificates of registration, emphasising safety and regulatory compliance.
Furthermore, the use of the ‘Awesome Assam’ logo, emblematic of the State Tourism Department, will be regulated. While events organized by the Tourism Department or in collaboration with State entities may utilise the logo, external parties must obtain prior approval for its use.
The overarching goal of the Act is to invigorate and bolster Assam’s tourism sector, recognising its pivotal role in economic growth, employment generation, and infrastructure development. With tourist footfall on the rise, particularly in renowned national parks, the State aims to diversify tourism offerings and distribute visitors across various destinations. Enhancing communication networks, infrastructure, and amenities in emerging tourist areas remains a top priority to sustainably harness the state’s tourism potential.
As Assam endeavours to position itself as a premier tourist destination, the implementation of these measures underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for tourism growth while prioritising visitor safety and experience.
